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The Manitoba government says it will invest $250,000 to explore the possible establishment of a national marine conservation area in western Hudson Bay.
Premier Wab Kinew made the announcement on Wednesday, February 3, 2026, in Churchill, saying the funding would support early work toward a potential feasibility assessment, alongside partners including Oceans North, Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) Manitoba, Indigenous nations, and the federal government.
Kinew said the initiative is intended to balance environmental protection with economic development in northern Manitoba, particularly as work continues on the Port of Churchill Plus project.
Funding and scope of the work
According to the province, the investment includes $50,000 in direct funding and $200,000 in in-kind support. The work would involve collaboration with Parks Canada, Indigenous nations, including Inuit in Nunavut, as well as local communities and industry stakeholders.
The Manitoba government says the exploration would consider how a national marine conservation area could operate alongside existing tourism and port-related activities.
Environment and Climate Change Minister Mike Moyes said the proposed work is aimed at protecting marine ecosystems while supporting tourism and long-term economic activity in the region.
Federal and Indigenous perspectives
Federal Environment, Climate Change and Nature Minister Julie Dabrusin said western Hudson Bay is being considered as a possible candidate for a national marine conservation area, noting discussions are at an early stage.
Dabrusin said any decision about a feasibility assessment would be informed by dialogue with First Nations, Inuit and Métis partners, along with engagement from communities and stakeholders.
Federal Arctic and Northern Affairs Minister Rebecca Chartrand said marine conservation efforts in Northern and Arctic regions must involve collaboration and Indigenous leadership.
Federal Secretary of State (Nature) Nathalie Provost said exploring a national marine conservation area would align with Canada’s biodiversity goals, if guided by science and Indigenous knowledge.
Support from conservation groups
Oceans North announced it will contribute $1 million to support community engagement, scientific research and capacity building related to the initiative.
Christopher Debicki, vice-president of policy development and counsel for Oceans North, said a feasibility study would allow time to assess the proposal in collaboration with northern leadership.
CPAWS Manitoba executive director Ron Thiessen said western Hudson Bay supports wildlife populations and is central to the region’s tourism economy, and that a national marine conservation area could help guide future development.
Chief Darryl Wastesicoot of York Factory First Nation said his nation views the potential conservation area as part of broader efforts to strengthen stewardship over traditional coastal territory.
The premier and provincial ministers are scheduled to take part in a town hall with Churchill Mayor Mike Spence following the announcement, where residents will be able to ask questions about the conservation area exploration and the Port of Churchill Plus project.
